Last week I watched an interview with Donald Trump on the Today Show. It was partly a promo for the next series of the Apprentice. Several applicants were briefly interview by Mr. Trump so he had just a minute or so to size up each of them and pick one to be a candidate on the new series.
He asked about their present job and followed up with the same question to each: "Do you love what you do?" He watched them carefully and waited without interrupting. He was looking for a spark. I observed that he seems to be a very attentive listener. Also that he obviously loves what he does. If he didn't I don't think he would do it no matter how much money he would give up.
The other day I read an article by a coach who came from a different profession. She had invested heavily in her education and had spent several years practicing her skill. Over time she began to feel she was merely tolerating her work, clearly she came to see that didn't love what she did. So, she made a list of what she knew she was good at and another one of what she liked to do and then she figured out what she needed to do to make her work choice match up with her lists. She decided that coaching was a natural fit for her. She got the necessary training and eventually set up her practice. She designed a supportive environment. She said she is having fun.
Do you love what you do? If so, keep doing it the best you know how. Within the framework you have set up already see if your environment (whether attitude, place, help) needs any tweaking to make it more supportive for you.
If things aren't right for you, assess what it is personally costing you to stay stuck. Putting up with stuff gets you down. I believe that is especially true about work. So, if you feel like you are just putting in time—"TGIF" thoughts are a clue that is happening; if you feel your talents are wasted or not recognized why not make your own list of what you like to do and what you are good at. If you need to ask your friends let them help you with their impressions.
Then set out on your occupational adventure of discovery. Something much better is out there for you. When the fit is right you will know it.
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